Weekend Trips from Seattle | Insider’s Guide on 27 Hot Spots
One of my favorite things about living in Washington has been the weekend trips from Seattle and how there is something to do for everyone.
If you want to spend the weekend outside in the summer, the spring drinking wine at a vineyard, the fall backpacking through the cascades, or the winter in fresh snow, Washington has it all.
Since there are so many places for a weekend getaway in Seattle, it can be overwhelming to choose which place to choose. My goal through this post is to give you the distance for each from Seattle, why you should visit, and recommended activities in each location.
Weekend Trips from Seattle
The 27 destinations below are where I have spent time either adventuring or having a more mellow relaxing weekend. Each location is special with its own atmosphere, types of food, and activities. Let’s dive in.
1. San Juan Island, WA
Distance from Seattle: 3 hours + 21 minutes
Why Visit? Located in Northern Washington lies the 175 islands, creating the beautiful San Juan Islands. If you love to sail, kayak, crab, fish, or do any type of water activity this is a perfect spot.
Activities:
- Explore The Whale Museum
- Visit Friday Harbor
- Kayaking tours
- Whale watching tours
- Visit Lime Kiln Point State Park
2. Orcas Island, WA
Distance from Seattle: 3 hours
Why Visit? Similar to San Juan Island, Orcas Island is another relaxing and charming island. Rosario is one of my favorite spots on the island for food and the Rosario Resort & Spa is a spot you won’t want to miss to unwind.
Activities:
3. Squamish, BC
Distance from Seattle: 3 hours + 40 minutes
Why Visit? Don’t forget your passport or enhanced license to cross into Canada’s picturesque town and the Canadian Rockies. The windy road to reach this town will leave you in awe of the mountain backgrounds and water views.
Activities:
- Endless hiking
- Rock climbing
- Mountain biking
- Kiteboarding
4. Hamma Hamma, WA
Distance from Seattle: 2 hours
Why Visit? The scenic drive along the Hood Canal will bring you to the oyster meca of Washington, Hama Hama.
Activities:
- Hama Hama Oyster Saloon
- Lake Cushman (swimming, fishing, boating, or camping)
5. Hood River, OR
Distance from Seattle: 3 hours + 40 minutes
Why Visit? Otherwise known as the windsurfing capital of the world, Hood River is a hub for adventure. The winds from the Columbia River Gorge create perfect winds for windsurfing and kitesurfing. If you want to stick to land activities… hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and other activities are popular.
Activities:
- Private Mount Hood and Columbia River Gorge Air Tour
- Hood River Bicycles
- Big Winds (windsurfing lessons)
6. Stehekin, WA
Distance from Seattle: 3 hours + 40 minutes
Why Visit? If you want to go somewhere that’s more secluded with rad hiking and views, Stehekin is the place for you.
Activities:
- Hiking/backpacking
- Boating
- Fishing
7. Bend, WA
Distance from Seattle: 5 hours + 50 minutes
Why Visit? Bend is a chill mountain town with a vibe that you can easily relax in after an adventurous day mountain biking or hitting the slopes.
Activities: Check out my post below for an epic list of activities.
8. Leavenworth, WA
Distance from Seattle: 2 hours + 15 minutes
Why Visit? Leavenworth is commonly referred to as Washington’s Bavarian village. There are many unique tours and festivals throughout the year. In the fall it will feel like you are in Germany for Oktoberbest, and in the winter it feels like a dreamland with all the lights and sleigh rides.
Activities:
- Rock climbing
- Hiking/backpacking
- Festivals
- Relaxing hotel stays
9. Nehalem Bay State Park, OR
Distance from Seattle: 4 hours
Why Visit? About 2 hours from Portland is a bay filled with clams and Dungeness crab. This state park has a campground that fits tents and horse trailers and is a blast to ride your horses through the dunes and ocean.
Activities:
- Nehalem Bay Winery
- Kelly’s Brighton Marina (no reservations needed for crabbing)
- Neahkahnie Mountain Trail
- Kayak Tillamook County
10. Whistler, BC
Distance from Seattle: 4 hours + 30 minutes
Why Visit? Many people visit for skiing and snowboarding, hiking to the waterfalls, walking around the village, or lounging by one of the sparkling lakes.
Activities:
- Whistler Blackcomb (skiing & snowboarding)
- Hiking
- Mountain Biking
- Whistler Village (shopping & restaurants)
11. Spokane, WA
Distance from Seattle: 4 hours + 10 minutes
Why Visit? Spokane is the second most populated city in Washington. This is an accessible city with a large historical significance and an underrated food scene. Spokane continues to grow and show its artistic and lively atmosphere.
Activities:
- Whitewater rafting on the Spokane River
- Riverfront Park
- Mount Spokane
12. Woodinville, WA
Distance from Seattle: 40 minutes
Why Visit? If you want to step out of the bigger cities and into the wine mecca of Washington with a charming small-town flare, Woodinville is the weekend trip from Seattle.
Activities:
- Chateau St. Michelle (wine tasting & summer outdoor concerts)
- Wineries & Distilleries
- Walking & hiking trails
13. Tacoma, WA
Distance from Seattle: 45 minutes
Why Visit? Vibrant and industrial vibes with delicious restaurants, mountain views, and many shops and museums.
Activities:
14. Bellingham, WA
Distance from Seattle: 1 hour + 30 minutes
Why Visit? Close to many hiking trails, swimming holes, mountains for winter activities, tasty beers, and delicious foods, Bellingham has it all with a hippy vibe.
Activities:
- Hiking/backpacking
- Swimming
- Skiing/snowshoeing at Mt. Baker
15. Winthrop, WA
Distance from Seattle: 4 hours
Why Visit? This smaller western town has endless outdoor activities, small shops and boutiques, and antique boardwalks.
Activities:
16. Portland, OR
Distance from Seattle: 2 hours + 45 minutes
Why Visit? Portland has a unique scene, it is known to be an eclectic city with its vibe atmosphere, and great food.
Activities:
- Powell’s Books
- Columbia Gorge Waterfalls Tour
- Bridge City Tour (by land & river)
- Willamette River 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise
17. Mount Rainier National Park, WA
Distance from Seattle: 2 hours
Why Visit? Standing as the highest volcanic peak in the contiguous United States is Mount Rainier. During the summer months, the National Park Service requires permits and reservations due to the increase in visitors. See more here.
Activities:
- Hiking
- Camp Muir – pictured below – (not recommended for unexperienced climbers)
- Skyline Trail
18. Port Townsend, WA
Distance from Seattle: 2 hours + 10 minutes (taking the ferry)
Why Visit? If you want to relax on endless beaches and trails, this maritime spot is the place for you.
Activities:
19. McCall, ID
Distance from Seattle: 7 hours + 45 minutes
Why Visit? McCall might be a further drive than other destinations, but this old logging town is worth it. McCall is a rad spot to visit in the winter for snowmobiling and backcountry skiing. In the summer there are endless hikes and swimming spots to visit.
Activities:
- Farmers markets
- Hot springs
- Payette Lake
- Biking
20. Vancouver, BC
Distance from Seattle: 2 hours + 45 minutes
Why Visit? The drive up to Vancouver is beautiful from Seattle. You will have the opportunity to see the snow-capped mountains, views of the ocean, and open fields. Vancouver is more of a touristy destination so if you like the hustle and bustle type of trip, Vancouver is a place that has it all.
Activities:
21. Suncadia (Cle Elum, WA)
Distance from Seattle: 1 hour + 20 minutes
Why Visit? This all-season resort has outdoor activities all year long. Suncadia is close to the Cascade Mountains for hiking and snowshoeing. However, if you want to stay closer to the resort you can go ice skating or axe throwing (not recommended for all).
Activities:
- Cle Elum Lake
- Golfing
- Three Peaks Outfitters (horseback riding)
- Guided Yakima River tours
- Glade Spring Spa
22. Mount St. Helens, WA
Distance from Seattle: 3 hours + 25 minutes
Why Visit? This mountain left a massive crater and impact on Washington State due to the eruption in 1980. Geographical changes that created this crater and barren mountain are historical significances that you won’t want to miss.
Activities:
23. Whidbey Island, WA
Distance from Seattle: 1 hour + 45 minutes
Why Visit? Whidbey Island is Washington’s largest island with almost 170 square miles. This cozy area has many small towns and beaches to walk. I recommend visiting in the spring or fall when it’s a less touristy season.
Activities:
- Kayak in Deception Pass State Park
- Fishing
- Walk the beaches
24. Lake Chelan, WA
Distance from Seattle: 4 hours + 25 minutes
Why Visit? Lake Chelan is a hot spot for weekend getaways on the water and spending time in the sun at wineries.
Activities:
- Wineries
- Slidewaters (water park)
- Lady of the Lake Ferry Ride
25. Mount Baker, WA
Distance from Seattle: 3 hours + 30 minutes
Why Visit? For outdoor enthusiasts, this remote area is a great place to spend time any time of year in the outdoors.
Activities:
- Skiing/snowshoeing
- Hiking/backpacking
- Mount Baker Climb Tour (only recommended for experienced)
26. North Cascades National Park, WA
Distance from Seattle: 2 hours + 10 minutes
Why Visit? With dense forests, jade blue water, and jagged peaks, the North Cascades have one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world.
Activities:
- Paddleboarding,
- Hiking/backpacking
- Swimming
27. Olympic National Park, WA
Distance from Seattle: 2 hours + 10 minutes
Why Visit? This National Park has lush rainforest trails, coastlines, and stunning lakes. Summer is the preferred time to go in regards to the weather, however, this also is the peak season for tourists, so prepare for long lines.
Activities:
- Olympic Full Day Small Group Tours
- Boating
- Camping
Tips for Weekend Trips from Seattle
📍Some areas on the list require park passes, permits, or other requirements. Be mindful of where you are visiting and check to see if there are any types of passes required before visiting.
📍 Ferries in the greater Seattle area can be an easier way to see these destinations. The ferry schedules change seasonally and on holidays.
For the most up-to-date ferry schedules, use the WSDOT Washington State Ferries site.
📍 If you don’t have time for a weekend trip from Seattle, check out this day trip post⬇️
Weekend Trips from Seattle Concluded
These 27 destinations are a perfect weekend trip from Seattle, if you are traveling solo, with a partner, friends, or family, you can find something for everyone.
Whether you’re into hiking in the Olympics, chilling on the San Juan Islands, or checking out some cool cultural spots nearby, there’s a weekend trip from Seattle with your name on it.
Get ready for some epic adventures!
Happy Trails,
Mindful PNW Travels
